MONTICELLO, NY — Once a panther, always a panther. Monticello Central School District (MCSD) has welcomed Christine Miraglia as the new assistant principal of St. John Street Community School.

Miraglia is also the new director of school safety for the district. 

An alumna of MCSD, she was appointed to the position at the October 19 school board meeting.

“It feels great being able to come back to the district that was my foundation… The idea of being a part of a community school is a legacy that I cannot wait to be a part of,” she said.

Miraglia joins MCSD from the Liberty Central School District, where she was the assistant principal. She has over 13 years of experience in education.

A native of Bethel, Miraglia’s passion for education began when she was an MCSD student, a district spokesperson said. Miraglia recalled how the programs and opportunities offered by the district significantly helped her as a student and provided a foundation for future success. 

She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in fine art from Syracuse University, a master’s degree in social justice education from SUNY New Paltz and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Long Island University (Hudson campus). 

She was also an honoree for the Sullivan Democrat Business and Professional Women in 2016.

“During my post-secondary education experiences, I learned and unlearned many things. Sometimes education is more about how you take that information and develop yourself, a pathway or a relationship,” she said.

Miraglia said she hopes to bring her passion for social justice education and experience with restorative practices to the district, while maintaining a safe and engaging curriculum for all students.